Alright everyone, of my many questions, this one is thus far my most important. I am starting the restoring process with my 80 Camaro Z28 and am getting the 0010 block back together. Looking to build a 383 Stroker kit. Planning on the Eagle stroker kit with all forged, and the Edelbrock Power Top end Kit (the 410HP kit). Toping it off with a 750 double pump, mechanical secondary Might Demon.
Now, I have on an engine stand, a 3970010 block with the 010 on the front and sides. So that means the nickel rating is, like what, 10%? Far as I understand it, thats good. Now, the front of the block, where the water pump hooks up, the stamp is thin, not thick. Follow the link below to my site and see the pictures that I took.
I have been hunting around and my friend and our machinist are telling me to get the thicker stamp on the front end. But i cant seem to find one. they both insist that i will break this block, and this my crank and other things. I cant find another block at this time; at least not one i can afford. I hate to waste this block. It was driven for 2500 miles before it was taken out and i got it.
Any help and ideas? I don't want to blow my new motor up...

http://mattspics.info/?page_id=156

Thanks!

 

Where are you located at? Here in Raleigh, NC area I know some guys selling 350 blocks (roller and non-roller) for 75 bucks a piece.

I can't see your pics here at work so I will try and look at them when I get home.

 

the block will not break unless your trying to get a 1000hp,stock blocks can take up to 600hp

 

My machinist told me not give much validity to the 010 or 020 casting numbers. From what I read about it the numbers dont mean a whole lot after 1970. The machinist should be checking the block for casting shift, lifter bore alignment, cracks and sonic testing the cylinders. I dont know why they would be so concerned with the block for 400 hp.